Prime Minister praises Electric Umbrella
Electric Umbrella, the Hertfordshire charity that empowers learning-disabled adults through music, has received a formal letter of praise from the Prime Minister following the launch of its national campaign It’s Not a Crime to Be Different, in Downing Street.
The campaign, supported by Hemel Hempstead’s Member of Parliament David Taylor, saw Electric Umbrella perform outside Number 10 and share their message of inclusion, creativity and visibility for people with learning disabilities. The visit also included a special moment meeting Larry, the Downing Street cat.
In a letter dated November 25, the Prime Minister said he was delighted to hear how meaningful the visit had been for the Electric Umbrella community and described the organisation’s work as “excellent”. He encouraged Electric Umbrella to maintain contact with the Government, particularly through the Minister for School Standards, and confirmed that he had written to the charity directly to thank them for their incredible work.
David Taylor MP said: “Electric Umbrella are one of Hertfordshire’s greatest success stories and I am incredibly proud to support their campaign. Their message is simple but powerful. It’s not a crime to be different and their visit to Downing Street shows just how far their voice now carries. I am delighted that the Prime Minister has recognised their work and I will keep championing them in Parliament and across our community.”
The It’s Not a Crime to Be Different campaign highlights the need for greater representation, understanding and opportunity for learning-disabled adults. Electric Umbrella continues to grow its national profile through performances, workshops and public awareness work.
Mel Boda, Co-Founder of Electric Umbrella, said: “Our campaign It’s Not a Crime to Be Different is all about celebrating individuality and challenging the barriers that too many people still face. Taking this message to Downing Street was a powerful moment for our community and a reminder that all voices matter. We are grateful for the Prime Minister’s letter and his recognition of the work we do, but the real impact comes from every person who hears this message and carries it forward. We will keep pushing for a world where difference is celebrated, and everyone is welcomed exactly as they are.”
For more information about Electric Umbrella and their campaign, visit electricumbrella.co.uk.